Rescued Opossum Released Back Into Wilderness

The Humane Society of Greater Dayton rehabilitated the animal after it was found in a hoarding situation.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 8:40pm

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An extremely abstracted, out-of-focus photograph of an opossum moving through a verdant forest, with soft, warm pools of light and color creating a dreamlike, atmospheric scene that conceptually represents the animal's journey from captivity to freedom.A rescued opossum finds freedom and new life in the wilderness after being rehabilitated by a local animal welfare organization.Today in Dayton

An opossum named Ophelia has been released back into the wild after being rescued from a hoarding situation in Dayton, Ohio. The Humane Society of Greater Dayton removed Ophelia and several other animals from a home in January, where they found trash, feces, and several dead animals. Ophelia was transferred to a licensed wildlife rehabilitator and has now recovered and been released.

Why it matters

This story highlights the important work of animal rescue organizations in rehabilitating and releasing animals found in neglectful or abusive situations. The Humane Society's efforts to save Ophelia and other animals from the hoarding home demonstrate their commitment to protecting vulnerable creatures and giving them a second chance at life in the wild.

The details

In January, the Humane Society of Greater Dayton removed 31 cats, one dog, and one opossum from a home in the 1000 block of Old Orchard Avenue. The home was in an extreme state of disrepair, with trash, feces, and several dead animals found inside. The opossum, named Ophelia, was transferred to a licensed wildlife rehabilitator for specialized care. After nearly three months of rehabilitation, Ophelia was released back into the wild this past weekend.

  • On January 16, the Humane Society rescued the animals from the hoarding situation.
  • Ophelia was transferred to a wildlife rehabilitator immediately after the rescue.
  • Ophelia was released back into the wild this past weekend.

The players

Humane Society of Greater Dayton

A non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating animals in the Dayton, Ohio area.

Gale Liebrock

The owner of the home where the hoarding situation was discovered, who was arrested on charges including animal cruelty and neglect.

Ophelia

The opossum that was rescued from the hoarding situation and rehabilitated by the Humane Society before being released back into the wild.

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What they’re saying

“It was probably one of the worst environmental situations we have found animals in, and many of the animals didn't survive. So the ones that did are now in our care and are being cared for properly.”

— Brian Weltge, CEO, Humane Society of Greater Dayton

“It's hard to put into words what a moment like this means. From a cramped, dirty cage to the freedom of the outdoors, Ophelia's journey is a quiet but powerful reminder of why this work matters so much. Every life deserves a chance, no matter how small or unexpected.”

— Humane Society of Greater Dayton

What’s next

The owner, Gale Liebrock, was arrested on charges related to the hoarding situation and is expected to go through the court system to receive the help he needs to prevent a repeat of this incident.

The takeaway

This story highlights the vital role that animal rescue organizations play in rehabilitating and releasing animals found in neglectful or abusive situations. The Humane Society's efforts to save Ophelia and other animals from the hoarding home demonstrate their commitment to protecting vulnerable creatures and giving them a second chance at life in the wild.